Drive-Thru Liquor Stores. Convenience or Promoting Drinking & Driving

During a recent trip to my local Wal-Mart I was cutting through the adjacent strip mall which contains a Kroger, Papa Murphys Pizza, Library and few other businesses. The business located on the far end happens to be a liquor store. It is not unusual to pass by that particular liquor store and see the delivery trucks parked out front for restocking the shelves.

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This particular day I happened to notice some construction going on at the side of the building. After closer inspection I noticed a sign. Amidst the dust and dirt and construction equipment the sign that I saw read, “DRIVE-THRU COMING SOON!”.

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Before I go any further, I would like to preface this blog entry by saying that I am in no way against the sale or consumption of alcohol or discriminatory to those who consume it. My issue today is centering around the Drive -Thru concept itself in a liquor store.

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I completely understand that with our busy lifestyles nowadays, convenience is a must. I’m not so sure that I can be sold on the convenience aspect of purchasing alcoholic beverages. Although drinking and driving related accidents and fatalities in Kentucky have managed to decline in the past years, I cannot help but imagine how many more lives could be saved if the drive-thru liquor store was outlawed.

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After much research I found that I am not so off base in my thinking regarding the outlaw of the drive-thru liquor store. It seems that there are a handful of states across the country that have laws prohibiting drive-thru liquor stores. I have to stand firm in my belief that the drive-thru liquor store contributes as much to drinking and driving as it does to it’s convenience factor of shopping in general. When the convenience factor is second to life itself, then something is out of whack.

Below are some statistics.  I KNOW we can do better.  It's a matter of life and death.

The KSP reports that preliminary 2011 traffic fatality numbers indicate there were 720 deaths on Kentucky roadways last year. Of those, 49 percent were not wearing a seat belt and 16 percent were in alcohol-related accidents.

Every Generation Has a Crisis. It’s All Relevant.

During a phone conversation last evening with a very close friend, our conversation started with him asking “What in the world is going on with this country”? Being the optimist that I am, my response was “What do you mean”? We then proceeded to discuss every issue that is facing the American people today. To say the least, it was a very detailed and intense conversation.

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I admit, I always enjoy a good conversation with someone that actually has knowledge of their topics verses those that just rant with little to no knowledge of what they are ranting about. This was indeed one of the conversations that I truly enjoy.

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As this friend continued, the conversation led to him telling how concerned he was about the direction that the country was headed and, how in the world will our children and grandchildren every overcome this horrible fate?

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Again, wearing my optimists hat my response went like this. I’m not disagreeing that yes, there are many issues that face us and generations after us. I have to go back to think though.  Didn’t every generation have a crisis?

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Just off of the top of my head a few of those go like this. The 60’s had their Cuban Missile Crisis, the 70’s had the Oil Embargo, the 80’s had the Midwest Farm Crises and the 90’s had the savings and loan crisis.

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I can remember growing up, my grandparents saying “This world is going to hell in a hand basket”. Those words are still spoken today as they have been with every generation until now. In a nut shell I guess I’m saying that although the price at the gas pumps are averaging over $4.00 per gallon, the value of the dollar is near nothing and unemployment is at an all time high. Remember, we’re not the only generation to face what is thought to be the end of the world and somehow, we survived. I know that the American people is a resilient people and the Gloria Gaynor hit of the 80’s so proudly stated, “I will Survive”.

Malingering: A Growing and Costly Problem

Perhaps one of the most under diagnosed syndromes of our time, Malingering is characterized by a deliberate fabrication of psychiatric or physical complaints for clear secondary gain such as material reward (e.g. controlled substances, money) or punishment avoidance. Surely, as long as there have been people, there too have existed malingerers. Probably the earliest reference appears in the Old Testament...
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1 Samuel 21: 12-15: And David laid up these words in his heart, and was sore afraid of Achish the king of Gath. And he changed his behavior before them, and feigned himself mad in their hands, and scrabbled on the doors of the gate, and let his spittle fall down upon his beard.
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In recent history, the incidence of Malingering appears to be on the rise, temporally related to the creation of the Social Security Disability Act in the 1970s, which has offered worthwhile enticements to those so inclined.
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Typically, health care providers are reluctant to diagnose this condition, because of the difficulty in proving Malingering or honestly confronting a suspect without fear of creating embarrassment or provoking retaliation.
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With the advent of the internet and the resulting free flow of information about psychological tests, independent medical exams and information about how to fake believable mental disorders on psychological tests, the problem of malingering of mental disorders continue to grow worse.
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As this growing issue increases so does healthcare costs. Who pays for this? The working class does, since it has been determined that the primary malingerer is the unemployed and generational recipients of government assistance.
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It has only been recently that certain mental health professionals have sought to weed out the malingerers through a series of physiological tests that have proven very effective in distinguishing the real conditions for the fake ones.
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Go to any local government assistance building or health clinic and you will find malingering at its best.  This is one of the many issues that plague not only our healthcare system but the welfare system.  Since we can't count on the culprits to do the right thing, it is up to the general population to step up and expose the frauds for who and what they are.

Not only is the system broken, it is being literally ripped to shreds by its recipients.

Related Stories:
Welfare: A necessity for some, a way of life for others.

Nothing Says Grief Like a Money Making Opportunity

As the media monster continues to stomp its way through the country and spread propaganda pertaining to the Treyvon Martin saga. Several stories of interest begin to surface that counters the original reports of the innocent little skittle eating teen that was allegedly shot for no reason.

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There are reports that at least three witnesses have stepped forward claiming to have seen accused shooter George Zimmerman being attacked by the hooded teen. It has also FINALLY been reported that according to police, when they arrived they found a bloodied and beaten George Zimmerman with a busted nose, face lacerations and the back of his head busted open due to being pounded repeatedly on the ground.

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Now I am by no means an expert in crime scene reconstructions or forensics, but I think it’s pretty safe to say that the injuries sustained by George Zimmerman were not inflicted AFTER Treyvon Martin was fatally shot. That alone eludes to and backs up claims that George Zimmerman was accosted first then forced to defend himself.

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The second point that I would like to touch on is the issue of the photos again. It has recent been reported that several of the photos being circulated of Treyvon Martin were in fact from the facebook page of a different Treyvon Martin. In my original research I was able to distinguish that right off the bat. That’s why I never used those photos, However there was a photo available of a more recent Treyvon that I have and continue to use in my blog postings and thankfully I was able to grab it before the actual facebook page of the real Treyvon Martin was mysteriously taken down.

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Thirdly I would like to touch on a story that I recently ran across that reports that the family of Treyvon Martin has filed with the U.S. Patent office to have the phrases “I am Treyvon” and “Justice for Treyvon” trademarked. Well, nothing says grief like a money making opportunity.

(click photo to enlarge)

Lastly, I want to be sure that no one makes any mistakes in their perception of my blog entries as they pertain to this story. My stance isn’t for or against Treyvon or George Zimmerman. Because I, like the rest of the country do not have enough information to make a decision or place blame. We do however have plenty of information to know that the media along with several special interest groups are spinning and twisting this story to tell it in a manner that creates the most racial uproar possible.

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I can only hope that the truth and facts of this story come together and all involved can heal as they move forward. Until then I will continue to follow this story and blog accordingly until the media monster is wrangled or at the very least comes to its senses and begins reporting some truth in this, no doubt sad story.

Related Stories:

The Treyvon Martin Shooting - Who Is The Victim Now?

The Treyvon Martin Saga - Thank You Media, May We Have Another

The Treyvon Martin Saga - Thank You Media, May We Have Another

So now that we have all been handfed what the media felt that we should know about the Treyvon Martin shooting case in order to cause the biggest racial frenzy possible. We are now getting the information that should have been reported in the beginning. It seems that contrary to what we were led to believe, our innocent not so little Treyvon Martin is turning out to be the aggressor and not so innocent in this story.

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According to reports and some witness accounts, Treyvon actually punched George Zimmerman in the face then pounded his head onto the ground before being shot.

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Additionally it appears that the not so little Treyvon has had several suspensions from school and has been in trouble for altercations with school security.

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This story has more spins and twists than a two dollar stripper and continues to spin and twist daily. The one constant that we can all be assured of is that the media will continue to feed us as they see fit in order to keep the drama at its highest level possible.

Related Stories: The Treyvon Martin Shooting - Who Is The Victim Now?

The Treyvon Martin Shooting - Who Is The Victim Now?

By now, I am sure that everyone has heard of Trayvon Martin, the Florida teen that on February 26^th was shot and killed by Neighborhood Watch Captain, George Zimmerman. Communities across the country are marching, protesting and rallying for the arrest of Mr. Zimmerman for what is called the “cold blooded murder” of Trayvon.

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The issue that I have with this entire incident is this.  In typical fashion, everyone has taken it upon themselves to be judge and jury in something that they do not have any facts on. The only full piece of information that has been released is that an alleged unarmed African American teen was shot and killed by a Neighborhood Watch Captain for no reason.

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As like in many incidents involving minorites, there are those that pull out their deck of race cards to make a case. Since both individuals involved are minorities, the race cards can most likely be put away. Until any facts surrounding the incident are released, I find it very hard to point fingers in any direction in this case. No one and I mean no one has the right to be judge and jury in this or any other case in which there has been no full facts or information given.

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This tragic trend in today’s society of the automatic presumption and placement of guilt without knowing any facts in my opinion is very alarming. This type of reaction is exactly why it is getting more and more difficult for someone to get a fair trail and why there are so many innocent people today serving prison sentences and even on death row.

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I would encourage everyone to put your torches away and let officials do their job before fingers are pointed and judgments are made. We must all remember that we still live in a country where a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Let’s not be our own enemy of that right.

Those that have been following this story will notice that the photo that I posted above of George Zimmerman is not the same photo that was originally splashed around by the media.  I did that for a reason.  My question is, would public opinion of Mr. Zimmerman been the same had this been the first image that they saw rather than the shot used below?

I'm am in no way choosing sides in the matter (because I, like everyone else do not know the facts).  I am merely stating my opinion and pointing out what I feel is a seriously disturbing trend being perpetrated by the media and carried out by the public.

WHO IS THE VICTIM NOW?

Treyvon Martin, George Zimmerman or We The Public

~T.H.

Welfare: A necessity for some, a way of life for others.

I find it very difficult to feel sorry for those struggling to make ends meet that continue to foolishly squander their resources. There are those that between the unreported income in an unwed couple situation, food stamps and other government subsidies have more than those who work daily and provide for their families that cannot receive any assistance because of their income levels.

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The system is broken and someone needs to step to the plate and fix it. When someone that has worked their entire life and is receiving retirement benefits is struggling to find the means to meet monthly medical expenses and even eat, while those who continue to work the system as their families have for generations have twice the income there is something seriously wrong.

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I propose stricter policies be put into place with surprise visits and inspections occurring for those receiving government assistance of any type. I also propose that anyone receiving any type of government assistance be required to have a physical and if they are able to work, they must perform at least 10 hours of community service per week while receiving benefits.

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Stricter policies and more follow up would decrease the fraud and create more funds for those that are truly in need. If you agree, you are encouraged to write or email your congressperson and tell them, “You’re tired of people taking advantage of the system”.

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In the meantime, don't be afraid to report suspected fraud in any government subsidy program. This can be done anonymously in writing, by telephone or by internet.  It is only when we get involved can we make a difference.

Is Your Home Sweet Home Making You Sick?

Are you and your family constantly sick? Does it seem that you have more the your share of respiratory problems? Your house could be the culprit.

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Your home isn’t so sweet when it’s making your family miserable with asthma or other respiratory issues . Our sedentary lifestyles, air pollution and more time spent indoors where air can’t circulate are partly to blame.
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Your home actually traps airborne allergens, sometimes leading to a life-threatening condition called allergic asthma. The culprits are usually things that invade your home, like dust mites, mold spores, animal dander and insect droppings, says Kelly Stone, M.D., a staff clinician at National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
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You can take preventative steps to keep allergens at bay.

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The old adage, “Cleanliness is next to godliness” has more of a meaning than what you may think. A clean home can reduce your susceptibility to many illnesses.

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Dust mites live in upholstery and carpeting and feed on organic debris - your shedding skin for example. These microscopic creatures thrive in humid, warm conditions and furniture and carpeting is one of their favorite places to hang out.
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Getting on a regular cleaning and vacuuming schedule not only makes your house more welcoming and inviting, but will help greatly in your fight against illness.

Oh Good, You Farted Today. Thank Goodness You have Facebook.

If you’re like many of us, you have that one “friend” that feels the need to post everything he or she does on facebook. There is nothing sacred when it comes to the information that this person shares. Then there’s those random outbursts of anger. What day would be complete without knowing what kind of so-and-so they think someone is and never mention their name because "They Know Who They Are".

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In this age of social media, it seems that we are getting to know our friends and relatives better than ever. We know what time they get up in the morning, what they had for breakfast and we are even informed on every family squabble. So much so, that we feel as if we are in the squabble ourselves.

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I don’t know about you but I really didn’t want to know my friends or most of my relatives that well. There are some things that are better left unsaid or to the imagination at least.

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Then there’s those “friends” that never post a status update of their own nor do they even comment on any of your status updates. They do however click “like” on everything you post. These are the ones that I like to refer to as the squatters. By clicking “like” on everything it gives them the ability to follow your post word for word with every follow up comment by you and others without any responsibility of actually getting involved.

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Yes sir, social media has essentially become like that relative that no one likes but they tolerate them, “just because”.

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Let’s all raise our glass and give a toast to friends, relatives and acquaintances that we wouldn’t open the door for if they came knocking but eagerly tolerate their silly asses on facebook.

Mind Your Own Business To Reduce Stress

What are you stressed out about today?
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• Is it the same thing that stressed you out yesterday or something different?
• Are you in the habit (or trap) of being stressed out by some issue daily?
• Does your life equate to drama?

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Maybe you're addicted to stress. Your brain just might be hooked on that flood of adrenaline it gets whenever you go into a panic, start worrying or become anxious.We can get addicted to just about anything. Look at what's happened with cell phones. Every time I travel, I'm astounded at the number of people who are incapable of just sitting for a few moments without texting, calling or doing something on their phones. We are now in an age that provides 24-7 entertainment, information and disruption.
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I was at the airport several months ago, and they had television in the baggage claim area. Do we really need to be entertained constantly?Unfortunately, all of this "do, do, do" and "go, go, go" lifestyle has significantly increased the stress level in our daily lives and society in general. I don't need to tell you - you know - but do you ever think about it?
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Do you ever consider going "unplugged?"
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What will happen if you aren't tuned in electronically 24-7? Life will go on, just as it always has. Really, what do you gain by always being accessible - is it an ego thing?Another avenue for stress is the pressure we receive from people we interact with in our lives. If you're a young student, you may be pressured from your parents and teachers to perform.
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You may also feel pressure from your parents as to which sports and activities to participate in. If you're a parent, you may feel pressure by your significant other, your boss or friends. How often do you put pressure on someone else to get what you want? You may even do a little begging, pleading, flirting, and manipulation to coerce someone into meeting your desires or demands. The way we process situations in life is important.
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Do you view problems as a challenge to be solved, or opportunities you can use to grow? Fortunately, we always have a choice about everything. Yes, I said everything. Even when you don't feel you have a choice about something, you have a choice in how you respond.
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Here are three quick tips you can use to reduce stress in your daily life:
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1. Unplug and take a "timeout" every day
Realize your body and brain need a rest from constant electronic input and stimulation. Turn off your cell phone, computer, TV and radio. Go to the park (or sit outside) and eat your meal. Take a walk with the dogs or play with your kids. Have dinner with the family (no cell phones allowed) and have a conversation over dinner. Schedule time to do something special you've wanted to do and just haven't found the time for. Do five minutes of deep breathing before you sleep to unwind and relax your brain. The cool thing is, as you begin to take time out to do this - you'll find you have more time (and patience) in your day to get everything done.
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2. Prioritize your tasks the night before
Take a few minutes before you go to bed to think about what has to be done the next day. Write down all of the tasks on a white board or piece of paper. Then prioritize the list by what absolutely has to be done tomorrow and what can wait until another day.This will help in two ways - first, you'll eliminate stress by shortening the "to do" list to what is essential; and second, your mind will begin taking care of tomorrow's tasks while you sleep. The next day you will get through your list quickly and accomplish more in less time.
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3. Mind your own business
Don't worry about everyone else's problems and don't add stress to your life by trying to "fix" everyone and everything. Realize we are all extras in everyone else's play. And consider the thought that what other people think of you is none of your business - what matters most is what you think of yourself. Lastly, find three things every day that you do for someone else to make them feel good. Give a genuine compliment, go out of your way to do something for someone else and embrace the attitude of "How can I help:" instead of always thinking about "What's in it for me?"